The holidays between Christmas and New Year are the ideal time to travel and to visit certain destinations in particular: it is precisely at this time of year that some places “dress up for the festivities”, thanks to a special atmosphere that evokes Christmas and its traditions.

The illuminations, the themed shop windows, the typical dishes of the season, the Christmas trees, the concerts and the markets all help give some capitals a new face, making them the ideal destination for those who love that sparkling, magical atmosphere so typical of the festive season.

One of these is London which, in December, attracts thousands of visitors eager to lose themselves among the markets scattered across the city, warm up with steaming cups of tea and freshly baked scones, see the decorated shop windows with their own eyes and enjoy the bustle that sets the capitals apart in December.

If the city already has plenty to offer visitors during the other 11 months of the year, at Christmas there are a few unmissable stops.

The lights of Oxford and Regent Street

Christmas lovers cannot miss a lovely stroll at sunset along these two streets which, thanks to the illuminations, seem almost to sparkle. Those who have seen them know exactly what we mean: a true spectacle of light that changes every year according to a set theme. The illuminations blend perfectly with the architecture of the buildings, which seem almost to float in the air thanks to the play of light.

An essential stop on the tour: the windows of Hamleys, the capital’s famous toy shop, which every year amazes the children and adults who pass by. Indeed, the adults will feel almost like children again.

Shop windows straight out of a film

And speaking of shop windows, you cannot fail to stop at Harrods, the historic London store that every year creates window displays that look like real theatre sets. Lights, sounds and special effects captivate the crowds who enjoy this magical show every day.

The inside of the department store is no less impressive and, above all, is the ideal place for the classic Christmas shopping.

Just as spectacular, though perhaps more restrained and elegant, are the shop windows of Mayfair and Bond Street, where you can stroll among the haute couture boutiques.

Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park

In the popular imagination, Christmas means markets, fairground rides and lights: Winter Wonderland, the theme park set up inside Hyde Park, is exactly that.

The ice sculptures, Santa’s grotto, the street performers, the alpine chalets and a few food and drink specialities make this place truly magical. There is no shortage of things to do; if anything, there will not be enough time to see everything: enjoy the themed markets, the rides and the musical shows that bring this place to life every day.

The Christmas markets

Whether you need to buy presents for the coming festivities or simply fancy a wander, London’s Christmas markets are simply not to be missed.

The city, moreover, is dotted with themed markets large and small offering everything: antiques, local crafts, design and food and drink.

Greenwich Market is an institution in itself, but at this time of year it boasts no fewer than 150 stalls selling everything from clothes to candles, not forgetting culinary specialities.

Indeed, there are many stalls offering Christmas street food: cinnamon pastries, filled muffins, mulled wine, perfect for an open-air aperitif, pretzels still warm and hot dogs. A snack or an aperitif at a Christmas market is a must if you visit the capital at this time of year.

Covent Garden is also the ideal place for Christmas lovers: in the outdoor piazza there is always a huge tree covered in coloured lights that seems to welcome visitors. Inside the building, an Art & Design market of objects handmade by local artists and craftspeople is set up every year; nor is there any shortage of attractions for children, such as the giant Lego train the little ones can climb aboard.

The wonder of Trafalgar Square

A tree no less than 20 metres tall, donated every year since 1947 by Norway, decorates the famous square, making it renowned the world over. The gift is intended as a token of gratitude for the help the United Kingdom gave Norway during the Nazi occupation; when the Norway spruce arrives in London it is covered with hundreds of coloured lights.

Every day, themed concerts and shows are organised around the tree.

A walk along the Thames to celebrate the New Year

Throughout December, a walk along the Thames lets you see the spectacle of the illuminations from afar and appreciate the reflections mirrored on the river. It is no coincidence that some truly evocative photographs can be taken at this time of year.

And why not stop to buy some roast chestnuts to keep warm during the walk?

On New Year’s Eve the banks of the Thames offer a perfect vantage point for admiring the fireworks display the city puts on at midnight. If you decide to spend the last minutes of the old year this way, do not forget the glasses and a chilled bottle of Champagne, perfect for the midnight toast!

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